Pride • Integrity • Respect
Since 1974, John's has aimed to embody five core values; pride, integrity, respect, loyalty, and the ability to thrive. This month we would like to highlight local Mount Angel High School Student Savannah Boschler. Savannah is being recognized for exemplifying the value; Loyalty.
Savannah is an incredibly kind and caring person. Her smile is contagious and she is hardworking at both school and sports. In basketball, she is happy to help teach others new skills, and compliments them as they master said skills. Everyone can benefit from having a friend like Savannah.
Eeeeeww! Horror fans can experience a “Sleepover Slaughter” at Silver Falls, with the director of Squirm (pictured) and Just Before Dawn. COURTESY DAN SCARDINO
P.O. Box 927 Mount Angel, OR 97362 401 Oak St. Silverton, OR 97381 503-845-9499 • ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com ourtownlive.com
Our Town mailed free to residents and businesses in the 97362, 97375, 97381 zip codes. Subscriptions for outside this area are $60 annually. Deadline for ads or submissions for the May 15 issue is May 5.
Paula Mabry Editor & Publisher
Jim Kinghorn Advertising Director
DeeDe Williams Office Manager
James Day Sports Editor & Reporter
Stephen Floyd Digital Editor & Reporter
Bea Shapiro Designer & Copy Editor
Melissa Wagoner Reporter
Sara Morgan Datebook Editor
Janet Patterson Distribution
Steve Beckner Custom Design
Thank you for spending time with Our Town. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.
HEALTH & WELLNESS ACTIVITIES
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group / Wed, May 20 / 12-1:30 pm
PRESENTATIONS - FREE - ALL ARE WELCOME
Balance & Fall Prevention / Fri, May 8 / 10:30-11:30 am Downsizing and Clear the Clutter / Thurs, May 21 / 11 am-12
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Dinner with Friends / May 7 / 5:15-7 / Route 99
$5 advance tix / $7 at the door / 10 and under FREE RSVPs appreciated: 503-873-3093
FITNESS ACTIVITIES
with Friends / May 18 / 12-1 pm / Oregon Garden Resort Spring Dance! / Fri, May 29 / 6-8 pm / ALL ARE WELCOME
Jazzercise / M/Th, 5:50-6:50 pm; W/Sat, 8:30-9:30 am Register at www.jazzercise.com/studio/or/silverton-50-center
Qigong* / Tues, 9:30-10:30 am /
Kung Fu for Self Defense* / Tues, 4-5 pm
Yoga with Suzanne / Tues, 6 pm / Thurs, 8:30 am
$10 for members; $12 for non-members / all are welcome
NEW! Move and Groove / Thurs, 10-10:40 am
NEW! Intermediate Line Dance* / Fri, 1 pm Cancer Support Group / Thurs, May 14 & 28 / 11 am–12 Proceeds benefit the Silverton 50+ Center, a 501(c)3
Line Dance with Jan* / Wed, 1 pm (Advanced), 2 pm (Beginner)
NEW! Qigong for Pickleball / Check website for time / $5/person
*$2 suggested donation for these classes
ARTS ACTIVITIES
Jam Session/Acoustic (BYOInstrument) / Mon, 1:30-3 pm
Silverton Ukulele Network / Fri, 1-2:30 pm
GAMES, GAMES, GAMES
Mahjong / Thurs, 1 pm / Instruction May 14, 12-1, RSVP to 503-873-8093
Silverton 50+ Center Building Hours: Mon–Fri
Community gardening
By Melissa Wagoner
Bridget McCombie Veatch struggled with depression for two years after her mother, Tammy Sue McCombie, passed away from an unexpected and vigorous form of cancer. Then – a lifelong gardener – she thought of a way to heal herself; she needed to tend some plants… lots of plants.
“Even though I have a lovely yard to garden I was praying to the Lord for some more ground for larger harvests, hoping the work could help get me out of my sadness and get me going again,” she recalled.
What she found in the spring of 2021 was the Water Street Community Garden, hosted by the Silverton Church of the Nazarene. It seemed perfect, if a little overgrown, but upon reaching out to the church she didn’t hear anything back. So, she tried her hand at guerilla gardening.
“Everything was going well for a few weeks,” McCombie Veatch said. “I could walk up the road, hide in the tall grass, pull weeds out of the box I chose and cry and cry and cry.”
But eventually a broken water pipe and her own conscience forced her to try reaching out to the church one last time.
“You would not believe my shock when Pastor Dominic told me his son and his friend had accidentally broken the water line while they were out working on the garden because they noticed someone had come in and was working an area…
and they wanted to make it nice for whoever it was that was working the space,” McCombie Veatch said.
It’s been seven growing seasons since McCombie Veatch found the Water Street Community Garden, a discovery that not only helped her “turn around from debilitating depression” but find a supportive community.
“I think the number one most important aspect of the community garden is community,” she pointed out. “In a
world starving for fellowship, friendliness, and shared joy this space provides all those opportunities and so much more.”
It’s an opinion Juli Baldwin also holds. She is coordinator of another Silverton-based community garden, this one located on the grounds of the Silverton First Baptist Church.
“A lot of people have not grown up here, so [community gardening] is a good way for them to get to know other people,” she explained.
Baldwin’s desire to garden in community was not so much about personal healing as it was curing her tomato plants.
“I would get a tomato almost ripe at home and the deer would come in and rip it out,” Baldwin said. So, in 2011 she grabbed the last of 25 plots available. “I just loved it.”
And she still does, especially when she gets to watch new gardeners, like Kevin Keller – who planted his first plot last spring – grow a successful crop.
“I live in an apartment, and I would love to have a backyard, but I don’t…” Keller said. He moved from Texas to Silverton a year and a half ago. “I love watching stuff grow… and I thought it would be a good way to meet people.”
His instincts were correct. He has gotten to know many of the 17 Baptist Church gardeners, each assigned an 11 by 14-foot bed near his.
A member of the Silverton First Baptist Church community garden working in her assigned bed. COURTESY OF JULI BALDWIN
“The gardening community is so supportive,” fellow gardener Susan Murray,agreed. “They provide excellent resources and help. I hope others will join.”
Plots are going fast. June 1 is the last day to register for a space at the First Baptist Church Community Garden by calling 503-873-6181. And the Water Street Community Garden is already full with a waiting list.
But even if you can’t get a spot, you can still get involved.
“You don’t have to have a box to join the Water Street Community Garden family,” McCombie Veatch confirmed.
“We meet [the] third Saturdays (all day) to garden our boxes, work on community spaces and to tackle larger garden projects. This is a wonderful time and opportunity to meet your neighbors and make some friends. We often have resources to share as well, plants, seeds, prayers, and produce. I would be honored to meet you out there Silverton.”
Wildfire readiness event May 19 at Oregon Garden
Sustainable Silverton, the Marion Soil, Water and Conservation District, the Silverton Fire District and Oregon State University Extension are teaming up on a wildfire risk and readiness workshop.
The session is set for 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 19, at the Education Center at the Oregon Garden, 879 W. Main St. The center is near the main entrance across from the visitor center.
Topics to be discussed include:
• Emergency preparedness basics
• Defensible space strategies
• How to work with your community to reduce wildfire risk
• How to use FireWise as a preparedness tool
Food and beverages will be provided. Please RSVP to help ensure enough food is provided for all attendees. RSVP at marionswcd.net/event/wildfirerisk-and-readiness-workshop/#rsvp-now/.
If you have questions or if you need special accommodations, contact the event coordinator, Chelsea Blank, Natural Areas Conservation Planner at: Chelsea.Blank@marionswcd.net or 503-979-9747.
Time to enjoy life!
Country Meadows Village offers the perfect blend of independence, connection, and peace of mind. Our community is vibrant, social, and designed to support a fulfilling lifestyle.
A lifestyle of ease and convenience. No more worrying about yardwork, repairs, or unexpected household expenses. Our all-day dining with an in-house chef ensures fresh, exceptional meals, and our transportation services, housekeeping, and amenities make daily life smoother and more enjoyable.
Social connection is easy with neighbors close by and a full calendar of activities from brain health classes to fitness sessions, social hours, and special events. You’ll meet new friends and stay engaged.
Safety, security, and peace of mind with 24-hour staffing, emergency response systems, and secure buildings.
Healthy living. Our fitness center, walking paths, brain health programs, and nutritious dining options support a healthy, active lifestyle.
Flexibility for the future. We offer multiple levels of support, from independent living to assisted living, allowing residents to stay in the same community even if their needs change.
The community garden at the Silverton First Baptist Church. COURTESY OF JULI BALDWIN
By Melissa Wagoner
Few horror movie fans have had the opportunity to spend the night at the location where their favorite film was shot.
But this summer a lucky 100 enthusiasts of the 1981 slasher, Just Before Dawn, will get that chance, thanks to the Portland-based production company, Wyrd War.
“Since 2014, Wyrd War… [has] been thoughtfully curating unique and immersive sensory experiences ranging from art exhibitions, concerts and genre film events that champion the underground, arcane and unsung…” co-founder Dennis Dread said listing some of Wyrd War’s past events held at the Enchanted Forest amusement park, OMSI and the 99W Drive-in Theatre.
“In 2018 we invited the acclaimed exploitation filmmaker Jeff Lieberman to Oregon for a double feature screening of two of his infamous drive-in features at the Hollywood Theatre in Portland,” Dread
recalled. “It was a fantastic weekend, and we hit it off… We also bonded over our mutual adoration of the gorgeous Silver Falls area.”
When Dread and his partner, Tiffany Kenaley, discovered part of Lieberman’s 1981 slasher, Just Before Dawn, was filmed at Silver Falls State Park, they decided to fly Lieberman back for a special, on-location event.
“Of course, the pandemic soon had other plans for the world, so our dream was
deferred,” Dread said. “But we never gave up and… 2026 is the year!”
Coined, “Silver Falls Sleepover Slaughter,” the event will take place June 27 and will include music (a mix of horror movie soundtracks) spun by DJ Dread, a cash-only barbecue and bar, a roundtable discussion with director Lieberman, and a special screening of both Just Before Dawn and Squirm (a low-budget science fiction film about townspeople turned to worms).
“Anyone who loves great horror movies and a sense of adventure is very welcome to join us,” Dread said, adding the caveat that – because of the adult nature of the films – the event is best suited to those aged 18 and over.
“Our goal is to create a totally immersive sensory experience in the heart of the ‘crown jewel’ of the Oregon State Park system. I can’t think of a better way to start summer!”
Barrie Dempsey
Billy D
Adam Kenaston
Rudolf
Jess
‘Sleepover Slaughter’
A camp-out showcasing the 1981 slasher, Just Before Dawn, which was partly filmed at Silver Falls State Park.
Check-in June 27, 5 p.m., check-out June 28 by 10 a.m.
Recommended age: 18+
The event includes either a tent site or a bed in dormitory-style lodging, music by DJ Dread, a roundtable with director Jeff Lieberman and screenings of Just Before Dawn and Squirm. Tickets can be purchased at wyrdwar.com/.
Dr. Daniel Côté, DC Dr. Jennifer Martin, DC Licensed Massage therapists available 503-873-8099
Filming Squirm (1976). COURTESY DON SCARDINO
Special effects artist Matthew Mungle preparing a prop for Just Before Dawn (1980). COURTESY JEFF LIEBERMAN
Beauty in full bloom
By Melissa Wagoner
Silver Falls Seed Company is one of the largest and most beautiful flower seed production farms in the world and it’s located right here in the foothills of the Cascades.
“These fields are spread out all over the place,” Angela Rose said. Her father started a flower seed division of his family’s grass seed business in the 1980s. “But they’re all behind gates on private property and we’ve always tried to keep people out in the past.”
That’s because the flowers, though beautiful, are also delicate.
“We’re not growing them for picking,” Rose explained. “We’re growing them for seed.”
But Rose does understand the draw the fields have – her favorites are clarkia and godetia – which is why she decided to start giving tours.
“By doing [tours] we can go wherever the best places are and it’s supervised,” Rose said. “And I can teach [attendees] all about the seeds and Oregon agriculture.”
New Silverton wildflower tours
Starting at $99 a ticket, each tour will be between 90 minutes to 150 minutes long and will showcase numerous flower fields in peak bloom, with stops for photos, and information about seed production for the guests seated comfortably in Rose’s newly purchased 15-passenger van.
“My favorite thing when I travel is to go on a tour and learn something,” Rose said. “It’s fun to learn from someone who’s knowledgeable.”
And Rose, whose great grandfather, Ole Loe, came to Silverton from Norway in 1902 to become one of the first grass seed farmers, has a lot of experience growing and processing seeds of many kinds.
“We grow 100 different varieties [of just flower seeds] every year,” Rose said. “It’s a lot of labor. A lot of… going through and hand picking the weeds.”
But it’s a livelihood she enjoys and one she’s excited to share with those attending her tours – which will take place May through August.
“There’s a huge disconnect between the people who live in the cities and the rural community,” Rose said. “I’m hoping this will bridge the gap. Opening our door as a farm will hopefully educate.”
And give people a chance to do what so many people have wanted to do for years – stop and smell the flowers. For more information or to book a tour visit silvertonwildflowertours.com/
Above, one of the blooming fields included in the Silverton Wildflower Tours. Below, a field of Russell lupine. COURTESY ANGELA ROSE
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SFSD seat opens Knoll
resigns from board to lead Bethany as principal
By Stephen Floyd
Silver Falls School District Board
Member Kasshawna Knoll will be stepping down at the end of June to become principal of Bethany Charter School, just months after her appointment to the body.
In a letter of resignation accepted by the board April 13, Knoll said her new position “will require my full attention” and she would resign effective June 30.
Knoll said she “greatly valued” her time on the board and would “remain fully committed” to the board and the district.
“It has been an honor to work alongside you in support of our students, staff, and community,” said Knoll.
Board Chair Phil Wiesner said Knoll had a strong impact on the board during her short time in
office. Superintendent Kim Kellison said Knoll will be missed, but will still be around in her new role as principal.
Knoll was sworn in Oct. 28, 2025, after the resignation that August of longtime Board Member Tom Buchholz. Knoll was chosen from among seven applicants, and board members said she stood out due to her background as an educator and her history in the area.
The board declared a vacancy April 13, with a rough plan of accepting letters of interest through May and filling the position before the end of June. A specific timeline will be published by the district.
An appointee will serve the remainder of Knoll’s term through June 30, 2027. After that the position will be filled by the winner of the May 18, 2027, special district election.
Here when time matters most.
A stroke doesn’t wait. It can happen to anyone, at any time. Acting fast can save lives.
Watch for sudden vision or balance changes, weakness on one side of the body, a drooping face or changes in speech. These may be signs of a stroke. Calling 911 gets help started quickly to reduce long-term damage and improve recovery.
Our stroke specialists are available around the clock and are ready to respond when it matters most.
We’re here when every minute counts. We’re here for good.
Tammie Sakai DiNae Fitzke
Kasshawna Knoll SUBMITTED
Health care town hall
By Melissa Wagoner
When Mayor Jason Freilinger experienced a stress induced stroke in 2008, he not only suffered a medical event that was the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. that year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, he also barely escaped what another one million Americans experienced, most due to overwhelming medical debt – bankruptcy.
“I had heard… all of us are one illness from bankruptcy,” Freilinger told the audience on April 18 at a Health Care for All town hall at the Silverton Grange. His experience was eye-opening.
For Freilinger, the end result wasn’t as bad as it could have been due to family support and his continued employment.
“The job caused me to have that [stroke], but I had to work another two years because I had to have insurance,” he said, adding, “That’s happening all across America.”
And it shouldn’t be, according to Valdez Bravo, the board president of Health Care for All Oregon – a nonprofit with the mission “to achieve a comprehensive, equitable, publicly funded, and high-quality health care system.”
“Oregon truly has the best chance to do something about this healthcare system that is crumbling before our eyes,” Bravo added.
His assertion is largely owing to Measure 111, the Right to Healthcare amendment, which passed in 2022, setting off a series of events including the formation of a Universal Governance Board made up of nine members appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate to serve fouryear terms.
“The goal is that the [universal healthcare] system will be simpler, more affordable and sustainable,” Bravo said. He described the board’s mission as to gather input from Oregonians across the state that will aid in the creation of a universal health care model that will be presented to Oregon Legislature for consideration in 2027.
“We believe if Oregon does go first other states will follow,” Bravo said. “If you look at Canada, that started in one Provence (Saskatchewan) in the 1960s. That could happen for us in Oregon. We want to be the first.”
Bravo, an Army veteran and a Board-Certified Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives, added the reasons for a universal healthcare system are many. The primary ones, he said, are astronomical health care costs that do not correlate to longevity and a confusing for-profit insurance system tied (for most) to employment with premiums that continue to rise.
“One in four Americans are deciding not to have insurance,” Bravo said. “They’re rolling the dice and doing without it.”
But the universal healthcare system the governance board is proposing would solve that problem by doing away with the
Looking for input and answering questions
Valdez Bravo, board president of Health Care for All Oregon and Mary Lou Hennrich, a public health nurse and health care advocate, were presenters at the town hall. MELISSA WAGONER
need for insurance altogether.
“No more copays, premiums or out of pockets,” Bravo said. “Because any time you have to pay for healthcare at the point of service that’s a deterrent… Think about if everyone in this room just had healthcare.”
“It’s fairness, equity and justice for all, that’s what we’re trying to do…” Mary Lou Hennrich – a public health nurse and health care advocate currently serving on the Governance Board as a Public Engagement Member – echoed. “We want to be in this together.”
That means creating a system that includes the input of communities and organizations – health care users, providers, employers, insurers, tribes and community leaders – across the state. Because the goal is to create a healthcare system that isn’t driven by insurance or government run.
“It will really be the people…” Hennrich said, describing a non-profit public corporation that would be established to ensure any excess funds are reinvested to expand patient care.
“There will be a board of directors assigned.”
But first a funding method must be established. The one currently proposed has several sources including Medicaid and Medicare (maintained at the current level), employer payroll contributions (for businesses above $500,000), corporate income and activity tax adjustments and a personal income tax of 10.1 percent for those earning 200 percent above the federal poverty limit.
“We’re trying to have our tax be equitable and progressive,” Hennrich said. “We’re trying to look at all these numbers and keep things as close to what they’re currently paying as possible.”
With so much to accomplish, Hennrich acknowledges the soonest the universal health plan could be implemented is 2030 or 2032.
“I’m doing this for my grandkids and future generations,” Hennrich said.
Silverton Health Care Reform Q & A
Questions and answers from the April 18 town hall. What if a patient needs unique medical care?
“We want to make [the universal health plan] as doctor directed as possible.”
What about low-income people who currently rely on Medicaid?
“We want to make sure we do no harm. They will still be covered under DHS.”
Will people on Medicare be covered?
“Yes… You’ll still pay but it’ll be credited on your taxes. We don’t want people to quit Medicare.”
Will gender affirming care be available?
“Yes. It will be part of the plan, reproductive health care also.”
Will all health care practices be part of the universal health plan?
“That’s the plan…”
What about travel outside the state?
“We will have coverage for Oregonians traveling.”
Right now, there’s a big discrepancy between what nurse practitioners are paid and what doctors are paid, will that be rectified?
“We’ll [equalize] it.”
How will lower health care costs influence hospital occupancy?
“It will go up I think at the beginning… but we think we’ll bring more [health care providers to Oregon].”
If an out of state employer pays for my insurance, will I still be covered by the universal health plan?
“Yes. You live in Oregon.”
Do you foresee rich people/corporations moving out of Oregon to avoid increased taxes?
“There probably will be some people who are mobile and will move… we’re factoring some of that in.”
Will the wealthy be able to avoid paying the taxes?
“Ours is a progressive income tax, not a wealth tax. It’s not that we’re going after the wealthy.”
What about those doing business under the table?
“There are always people who figure out how to game things.”
What about insurance companies suing?
“We’re going to have a huge fight on our hands. That’s where we need the people of Oregon to stand up.”
Are there resources about the universal health plan that I can read and share?
Find more information at hcao.org/.
City upgrades
Key dates coming up for two major Silverton projects: Main Street and City Hall park plaza
By James Day
The Silverton City Council has scheduled major votes on two big-ticket civic projects in the next few weeks.
At the Wednesday, May 20, session at City Hall, councilors will review plans for redevelopment on Main Street between First and Water streets. On Wednesday, June 3 councilors will look at plans for developing a park plaza on the 1.25 acres of property south of City Hall.
Design elements for the two projects are closing in at 60 percent of completion. Mayor Jason Freilinger, at the April 15 council meeting, said that the council needs to be on the record on the major elements of the two projects. Thus, he moved to have the council vote on them at the upcoming sessions.
Elements Freilinger is hoping that the council will weigh in on include “pavers, lighting, design elements of the visitor and community center, undergrounding overhead utilities and other elements identified by the designers or city staff that could lead to cost savings while preserving the vital elements of the project.”
The park project has an estimated cost of $9.5 million, with the Main Street set at $7.5 million. Freilinger, some councilors and some members of the public have raised concerns about the expense.
The upcoming votes, it should be noted, will not be the final word on the two projects, which will come back to the council again in the fall when the design phase hits the 90% mark.
Four of the five community members who spoke during the April 15 public comment period addressed Main Street or the park plaza. Topics raised included a suggestion to fix the streets and potholes first, concerns about the scale of the building in the park project, ideas on recycling the water used in the splash pad
and a recommendation to honor the old oak tree in the Main Street planning.
Old City Hall: Attempts by the city to interest potential developers in building a boutique hotel on the South Water Street property occupied by the old City Hall and the Fischer Building failed. City staff did not receive a bid on the project. The next step likely will be to solicit a broader range of proposals.
“I’m excited to see what happens next, but I don’t see the urgency,” said Councilor Eric Hammond. “Let’s slow down a little bit and leave it out there (on the market) longer. That’s a unique spot on the creek.”
The 12,000-square foot former City Hall and the 1,100-square foot Fischer Building both would need extensive seismic and other improvements. Any decisions regarding their future likely will require the approval of the city’s Historic Landmarks Commission because of the buildings’ historic status.
Water curtailment: Councilors voted unanimously to tweak the city’s water curtailment plan by changing the date it takes effect each year. Effective this year the water curtailment period will run from June 1 through Oct. 31. No changes on the part of businesses or residential customers is required on June 1, unless one or more of four conditions is in place, including higher than normal usage, lower flows on Abiqua Creek, or maintenance or water system issues.
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Attempts by the city to interest developers in the former Silverton City Hall on South Water Street have been unsuccessful so far. JAMES DAY
By Melissa Wagoner
Michelle Collazo can’t wait to invite her customers to the newly renovated and beautifully decorated home of the Atlas Bookshop, located inside Silverton’s Hartman Building.
“I want it to feel curated but welcoming, thoughtfully arranged but not too pretentious,” Collazo said. She first opened a miniature version of Atlas Bookshop in the mezzanine of the Little Leaf Café on Independent Bookstore Day (April 26) 2025.
“It’s all monochromatic inside. The books will be center stage.”
Because at Atlas Bookshop assembling a library of books for the readers that love them is the primary purpose.
“One of the challenges with the shop is I want [the selection] to be general but I want to also highlight what feels authentic to this community,” Collazo said. She finds the task simultaneously challenging and enjoyable.
“That’s the relaxing part,” she confirmed,
“making book lists and trying to figure out how they’re going to be displayed.”
It should be easier now, thanks to a larger store, more shelving and street-facing windows.
“I’m looking forward to creating displays in the windows…” Collazo said. “And we’ll have an OBOB [Oregon Battle of the Books] display. I’m excited to support that.”
The store will also have a larger children’s book section, with outward-facing shelves to make shopping for a picture book easier.
“And I’m excited to bring in more YA graphic novels,” Collazo said.
She wants readers of all ages to feel welcome at the Atlas Bookshop. That’s why her newest book club, “Page Turners,” will be for teens ages 14 to 18 and her first weekly store event, “Sunday Stories,” will be a story time for ages three to six.
“I love facilitating events,” Collazo explained, referencing the two successful book clubs already underway – one for readers of literary fiction and one for fans of romance.
Ready for a fresh start this spring?
Now, with a larger space she will be able to host these events and more, right there in the store.
“I’m looking forward to more accessibility in the physical space,” Collazo said. “And more hours including evening hours.”
Collazo held an invitation-only soft opening celebration on April 30 for those who have
chosen to support the future of the Atlas Bookshop by becoming a Founding Reader.
“This is a way to directly support the growth of a community bookstore – and to help shape what Atlas becomes in this new space,” Collazo wrote in the April edition of the store’s newsletter. There she described the four Founding Reader tiers and the benefits each receive – from an exclusive bookmark to a spot on the community recommendations display.
But you don’t have to become a Founding Reader to support the store or to attend the grand opening event noon to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 1, or to come by the store during the regular hours – Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“People are supporting the bookshop in lots of ways…” Collazo pointed out. “I’m delighted by all of it.”
For information about upcoming events, to place a book order, or to become a Founding Reader visit atlasbookshopsilverton.com/.
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Atlas Bookshop’s Michelle Collazo. MELISSA WAGONER
Legal Matters
Lawsuit dismissed Juetten and county reach agreement
By Stephen Floyd
A negligence lawsuit against Marion County over a fatal stabbing by a man under county supervision has been dismissed at the request of both parties ahead of an upcoming trial.
On April 24, Juetten vs. Marion County was dismissed in Marion County Circuit Court after plaintiff Jamilyn Juetten and the county filed a joint dismissal request the day before.
The motion did not indicate whether or not a settlement was reached. Our Town asked Marion County for a copy of any agreement and a spokesperson said the county “has no comment on the litigation.”
The dismissal agreement did state neither party would be awarded damages by the court. The suit was dismissed “with prejudice,” preventing Juetten from re-filing.
Juetten filed suit for $8 million Dec. 30, 2024, over an Aug. 13, 2021, home invasion stabbing in the Silverton area. Juetten
sustained grievous injuries and husband Travis Juetten, 26, was killed in the attack.
A related $3.4 million suit by the Estate of Travis Juetten was dismissed June 3, 2025, for being filed past the statute of limitations.
The plaintiff has appealed and as of press time the appeal was pending.
Detectives suspect Cody Michael Ray, 30, of Salem, of the attack. No arrest was made because Ray died by suicide before he was identified as the alleged assailant.
According to Juetten’s suit, Ray was on probation at the time of the stabbing and would allegedly have been in custody if the county had enforced the zero-tolerance terms of his sentence.
The county denied wrongdoing and said it was shielded from litigation by the Oregon Tort Claims Act. The county also said, because of COVID-19 restrictions in place at the time, if Ray had been arrested before the attack he would likely have been released regardless
Silverton $895,000
River Bend area, 3.06 acres with a beautiful country setting. Single level with a shop. Built in 2010. Contact Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#839923
Silverton $999,000
Renovated Victorian triplex near historic Silverton Park and Hospital, 3 blocks to downtown. 3717 sqft. Linda Webb 503-508-7387 MLS#835569
Silverton $625,000
Don’t be fooled by the tall roofline, this home is one story. Quality finishes, in Pioneer Village. Korinna Barcorft 503-851-1283 MLS#839882
Silverton $1,099,999
Beautifully remodeled 2920 sqft. home with view on nine acres! Contact Etta Hess 503-507-5786 and Donna Rash 503-871-0490 MLS#837156
$565,000
Move-in ready! Mt. Angel charmer, with 3-car garage, white cabinetry in this open kitchen, 1939 sqft, built in 2023. For more information, call Curtis Allen 971-701-3352 MLS#839012
Coming soon! Mt. Angel $189,000
Think outside the box! A vacant lot in Mt. Angel on Main Street, zoned RS/Commerical with multi-family potential. Kerry Hall 503-562-9102 MLS#839722
Scotts Mills $435,000
What an opportunity! 1.13 acres, 2382 sqft., with a charming fixer upper house. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#838382
Silverton $1,400,000
Exquisite home on Abiqua Creek, a canvas for art and wine collections. Full apartment with privacy from the main home. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#831851
Silverton $1,400,000
Reduced $250,000 - bring an offer! New Scandinavian Modern home on 4 acres. 42x42 shop, near Silver Falls. Valerie Kofstad 503-8711667, Jackson Sherwood 971-343-2475 MLS#837815
New listing! Silverton $117,000 55+ community, near Silverton High School on Pine Street, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1344 sqft. Korinna Barcroft 503-851-1283 MLS#839213
Silverton $2,199,000
Stunning 4600 sqft estate on over 22 acres. Mountain views, sauna, turn-around drive. Scott Stokley 503-586-8126 MLS#832203
Silverton $655,000
Elegant Victorian on a huge .61 acre lot. 10-foot ceilings, stained glass windows. Donna Paradis 503-851-0998 MLS#828366
THE FORUM
Sticker shock There are better alternatives for Main Street improvements
It’s no surprise the two proposed City projects – Main Street and Park Plaza – are so expensive. The city started with no stated budget, so with no budget it’s a designer’s dream.
No one can argue downtown streets, sidewalks, trees and utilities are a mess. But the whole of downtown should share in this project not just one block. The city should reduce costs to allow other improvements. Keep it simple. Let’s celebrate our buildings not a single street. Let’s get work done as quickly as possible by keeping it as simple as possible.
The argument of “we’ll do more projects (streets) later” is a weak and an unfunded promise.
The City formed a task force to work with staff and consultants to formulate a plan. You’d think Main Street and downtown property owners and/or business owners would constitute a fair number of committee members. Did not happen. No downtown property owners
and only one downtown business owner was included. Seems unrepresentative for a project that will impact their livelihoods. The budget now states $5 million for Main Street and $6.7 million for Park Plaza. That does not include the over $2 million in design fees. So, doing the math: $15.7 million (30% contingency) plus $2 million is nearly $18 million.
Back to the particulars:
1. Narrowing traffic lanes 4’ to add 2’ to the sidewalk width each side: This will not allow bikes to travel between parked cars and traffic. At the last open house a consultant acknowledged this, suggesting it might be OK for bikes to use the sidewalks. The purpose of wider sidewalks is more gathering and seating opportunities.
With this proposal traffic turning onto Main from First will have clearance issues, especially trucks or vehicles pulling trailers. Just getting out of your car will be less safe.
Quality Dental Care in a Friendly Environment
Guest Opinion
Michael L. Wellman, architect, retired and business/property co-signers:
Moe Salem, Wolfe, Ames, Noble Fox properties
Mark & Kasey Knaus, Oso & The Warren
Josh Echo Hawk, Silverton restaurateur
Ryan Gengler, Gallon House Pub
Mike & Mary McCammon, 207/209 East Main
Sammy Sadaka, Commercial / Residential Real Estate
2. Under-grounding power: Cost estimate $1.2 million (probably low). Renderings show crisscrossing overhead light strings running from street poles. Removing unsightly overhead lines and replacing these with overhead lines and poles for about $600,000+.
3. With a six-month timeline it’s likely a minimum of two Main Street businesses will close due to customers avoiding construction and traffic congestion.
4. Curbless sidewalks are proposed for ease of pedestrian navigation for street festivals. While the exact design has not been revealed, this type of non-curb can have its own set of issues: drainage, keeping cars off sidewalks, street sweeping and more.
5. This project will require a staging area for supplies and construction workers will require parking.
6. There’s nothing in the budget for future maintenance. The pavers, lighting and specialty concrete will require it.
We need to invest in the street but what is the goal? Is it to create a space to hold activities such as First Friday? Few businesses find any benefit to street closure. And with a new park and plaza gathering space three blocks away music, crafts, car shows, etc. can be hosted there.
To reduce Main Street costs, eliminate the underground power, look at more paving options versus concrete, keep the street width as is for safety, and retain curbs.
With these saving let’s try to make the rest of downtown more attractive. Visitors come to visit downtown not one “cool” street. Putting all the emphasis on one block is not the way to make Silverton more appealing.
The improvement plan must address overgrown street trees as well as sidewalk and curb repair. Currently building owners cannot maintain their facades as the trees block access for painting and repairs.
Downtown has nice buildings and businesses behind the foliage, broken sidewalks, potholes and crumbling curbs.
All in all it’s a wonderful thing to improve the downtown areas but these proposals do not reflect the character or style of Silverton. It would seem as though these proposals are an attempt to change our town to look like somewhere else.
This Conspiracy is Not a Theory!
Did you hear the one about the three conspiracy theorists who all walked into the same bar at the same time? Now don’t tell me that’s just a coincidence!
We live in a time of great skepticism toward just about every source of information. Our institutions have lost their credibility for good reason. They have been corrupted. News has become merely a “narrative.” Fact checkers have been found to be part of the program to push that sponsor’s narrative. Even artificial intelligence programs like ChatGPT and Claude have been caught lying, creating fake authors, making up and citing legal cases that do not exist! The companies call this hallucinating, but the fact is, it is just not true. So, who can you trust in a world where just about everyone is gaming you? Where everyone may be trying to influence you to buy into their way of seeing things about their product, or social agenda or politics? A world where it would seem that everyone “loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life.” Only now it is a wonderful plan for your money, your mind, your body, or your vote.
www.GraciousCross.org
coincidence?
And if not, who is behind it?
Here Is the Truth.
Is That Just a Coincidence?
The fact is, there is a global conspiracy going on, and it’s been going on ever since the Fall of Mankind in the Garden of Eden. It is a conspiracy to deceive as many people as possible into not believing the Bible—to not believe the Creation story, to not believe in the Fall of Mankind and to not believe in the global flood in Noah’s day. At its heart it is a conspiracy to oppose all faith in Jesus Christ.
“That’s crazy” you may say. “Gregg, you’re just being paranoid.” But what should we expect to find if such a conspiracy was true?
“Wikipedia reports that according to Keach Hagey, Sam Altman met his future husband, Oliver Mulherin ‘in Peter Thiel’s hot tub at 3 a.m.’ in 2015.” Why does that matter? These men are all on record as being opposed to what Christianity teaches regarding human sexuality, so they clearly have “a dog in this fight.” We can add Bill Gates, Tim Cook, and Elon Musk to this list of those whose views on sexuality, marriage and human nature are clearly in conflict with a Christian worldview.
Unfortunately, these are some of the richest men in the world. They are now using their immense wealth to build artificial intelligence models that will soon dominate every aspect of society, and that, by their own testimony, pose an existential threat to humanity itself. How have such men been promoted to such positions of power and wealth? They even boast “We Will Be As Gods!” Is this just a
According to the Bible, a fallen angel, named Satan, lied to our first parents, Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. He told Eve, “You will not surely die” if you eat of the forbidden fruit. “For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil” (Gen. 3:4).“You shall be as Gods.” Doesn’t that sound familiar?
moment to be born into this life with the wonderful opportunity to know and love God. Doesn’t God Just Kill All the People and Save All the Good?
That is what God did during Noah’s flood. He will also do it again, but next time by fire. God is going to deal with all of the evil people in righteous judgment someday. But just as with Adam and Eve, God spared Noah and his family in order to start over. Today He is enduring the sinfulness of evil human beings in order to give us, and our posterity, the chance to repent and turn to Him.
Just because God is being patient doesn’t mean He doesn’t care about the sins we commit. No one in all of the universe is going to get away with anything. The question is, “Who is going to pay for our sins?” Will it be the unrepentant sinner, dying for his or her own sins and going to an eternity in hell? Or
“The same liar who told Eve that she and her husband would “be like God” if they disobeyed God is now keeping his lie going with many other lies, all of which lead people away from the Truth.”
will it be the Savior, Jesus Christ, who has died to save us from God’s eternal judgment?
Again, according to the Bible, in Genesis 3, Eve doubted God enough to eat of that forbidden fruit. She gave some to her husband, Adam, as well. Then their eyes were opened and they became morally accountable for all their actions.
They weren’t “like God” in the way they had hoped. Satan had lied to them. They were still finite human beings. But now they bore the moral responsibility to always do what they now knew was good, and never to do evil (which they had already blown by disobeying God’s commandment in the first place!). God could have destroyed them both right then and been done with it. But if He had done that He would be destroying, not only them, but also all of their posterity. You and I would never have been born. So God chose instead to delay Adam and Eve’s physical death so that they would have time to bear their children. In this way, all of mankind has been created in Adam and Eve, and made “in the image of God.” Now we all get to have our
Jesus Christ was born into this world to live the perfect life we were all supposed to live, but haven't. Then, He voluntarily laid His life down for those who trust in Him by dying on the cross. Three days later, in order to prove His sacrifice was accepted as full payment for our sins, Jesus rose from the dead. That is the good news, and it is the only way that any of us can ever be saved from God’s justice.
Satan’s Conspiracy Continues
The same liar who told Eve that she and her husband would “be like God” if they disobeyed God, is now keeping his lie going with many other lies, all of which are intended to lead people away from the Truth. Satan’s conspiracy is to keep us away from Jesus. AI is just his latest and most dangerous attack.
Now, you may be thinking, “Satan? Really?”
To the scientific mind it seems unbelievable. But within the inner circles of some of the elites around the world, the existence of Satan is still believed in. Satan doesn’t want most people to actually believe in him yet. It’s better for him to lurk behind the scenes. But the Bible tells us that “the whole world lies in the lap of the evil one” (1 John 5:19).
By Gregg Harris
Here is an example of that. Have you ever noticed that when people want to cuss and swear, the name that they use as profanity is never Buddha? Nor is it Thor, or Odin. Not Zeus. Not Allah. No, when folks around the world want to cuss, they use the name of the God revealed in the Bible, or of His Son, Jesus Christ. People around the world thoughtlessly use the Name of the One True God to thrust themselves farther away from the only One who can truly save them.
“You Shall Know the Truth and the Truth Shall Make You Free!” John 8:32 Jesus talked a lot about the truth and about the harm caused by Satan’s lies. He said that He Himself is the Truth. He said His teaching is the only Rock upon which we can safely build our lives, as opposed to the shifting sands of this world’s opinions and lies. Jesus said “No one can come to the Heavenly Father, but by Me.” He announced that “God has loved the world in this way, by giving His only Son” (i.e. Jesus), so that “whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but instead have everlasting life.” Was He a liar? Was He a lunatic? Or is He in fact what He said He was— our Lord and Savior? You can find out for yourself right now. Simply turn to Him in faith and ask Him to save you. He has already died for the sins of the whole world. That part is finished. The way is wide open for you to get right with God.
Spiritual Castaways
When we refuse to believe the Truth, we are left only with Satan’s lies. We cast ourselves off like someone thrown into the middle of the ocean with no idea which way to swim. We’re tossed around by every wave of opinion until we finally drown in utter confusion. So, Satan’s conspiracy is real. He is the real Liar. Jesus is the Truth. As hard as it may be to believe this, you had better believe it.
Questions? Contact me at 971-370-0967. I am the Pastor of Preaching & Teaching at Gracious Cross Reformed Church in East Salem/Keizer and I’d love to meet you there.
On April 30th a Fantastic Movie will be released in the theaters!
A team of scientists reveal the hidden hand behind our universe. It is amazing. For more info go to: www.thestoryofeverything.film The views expressed by this advertiser do not necessarily represent the views of Our Town or its staff.
Gregg Harris,
Frequent Addresses
Mt. Angel Public Library, 290 E Charles St. Silver Creek Fellowship, 822 NE Industrial Way, Silverton. Silver Falls Library, 410 S Water St.
Silverton Arts Association, 303 Coolidge St. Silverton Council Chambers, 410 N Water St. Silverton 50+ Center, 115 Westfield St.
Weekly Events
Monday
Silverton 50+ Center, 115 Westfield St. Daily, weekly, monthly events 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org
SACA Food Pantry, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., 1030 N First St. Also 4 - 6 p.m. Tuesday, 9 a.m. - noon Thursday 503-873-3446, silvertonareacommunityaid.org
Mt. Angel Community & Senior Center Store, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 195 E Charles St. Also Tuesday - Saturday 503-845-6998
Senior Meals, 11:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Congregate dining. Delivery available Monday-Friday. $3 suggested donation. Age 60 and older. Make reservations three days in advance. Congregate dining repeats Tuesday and Thursday. Connie, 503-873-6906
Silverton Recovery AA, noon - 1 p.m., SACA, 1030 N First St., Suite B, Silverton. Seven days a week.
Free Monday Dinner, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Oak Street Church, 502 Oak St., Silverton. Sit down or take to go. All welcome. Free. 503-873-5446, oakstchurch@gmail.com
Boy Scouts Troop 7485, 7 - 8:30 p.m., St. Edward’s Episcopal Church, 211 W Center St., Silverton. Scoutmaster Dave, 760-644-3147, dave.tacker@gmail.com
Tuesday
Qigong, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. All welcome. Free for members. $5 non-members. 503-873-3093 Bible Study, 10 a.m. - noon, Silverton First Christian Church, 402 N First St. All welcome. 503-873-6620
Senior Meals, 11:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Community Center, 195 E Charles St. Congregate dining or delivery Tuesday and Thursday. Age 60 plus. $3 suggested donation. Ginger, 503-845-9464
APPY Hour, noon - 1 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Technical assistance for electronic devices. Free. 971-370-5040 Silverton Mainstay, 1 - 4 p.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St. Community space and activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Repeats Thursday. silvertonmainstay.org Mission Benedict Food Pantry, 1 - 4 p.m., 870 S Main St., Mt. Angel. Fresh produce, protein options, dry goods. Repeats 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Wednesday, 1 - 3 p.m. Thursday, Friday. 503-385-3231
Junior Explorer’s Lab, 4:15 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Stories, games and science. Ages 5-12. Free. 971-370-5040.
Cub Scout Pack 485, 6:30 p.m., Silverton First Christian Church, 402 N First St. Boys and girls in grades K-5. Elisha Kirsch, 503-507-6087
Growing Awareness, Nurturing Compassion, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Zoom. Secular presentation promoting mindfulness. No experience needed. Invite: 971-218-6641, compassionatepresence@yahoo.com.
Wednesday
Silverton Business Group, 8 a.m., Silver Falls Brewery, 207 Jersey St., Silverton. Networking meeting of Silverton business community hosted by Silverton Chamber of Commerce. Everyone welcome. silvertonchamber.org
Quilters Group, 9:30 a.m. - noon, Trinity Lutheran Church, 500 N Second Ave., Silverton. trinitysilverton@gmail.com
Boogie Woogie Wednesdays, 10 - 10:40 a.m., Silver Falls Library. Come dance. Ages 0-4. Free. 503-873-8706
Family Storytime & Indoor Playtime, 10:30 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. 5/13: Read with Chief Mark. Ages 2 - 5 w/adult. Free. 971-370-5040
Silver Chips Woodcarving Sessions, 1 - 4 p.m., Silverton Arts Association. All skill levels. 503-873-7645
Mission of Hope Food Pantry, 2 - 4 p.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. Fresh product, protein options, dry goods. 503-873-7353
Crochet Club, 3 - 4 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Learn to crochet. All supplies provided. Free. Repeats 4 - 5:30 p.m. Friday. 503-873-8706
Thursday
Yoga for All Levels, 8:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. $10/member. $12/nonmember. All welcome. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org
Yoga, 9 a.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. Open to all. Sheila, 503-409-4498
Move and Groove, 10 - 10:40 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Members free. Nonmembers $5. All welcome regardless of age or membership status. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org
Thursday Painters, 10 a.m. - noon, Silverton Arts Association. Join other artists for open studio time. All kinds of art forms welcome. Free. 503-873-2480
Baby Birds Storytime, 11 a.m., Silver Falls Library. Stories, music, bubbles and more. Ages 0-4. Free. Repeats Friday. 503-873-8706
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), 6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 203 W Main St., Silverton. Weight loss with continued support. First meeting free. Monthly dues $4. All welcome. David, 503-501-9824
Friday
Mt. Angel Model Railroad, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., The Depot, 90 W College St., Mt. Angel. Lionel (O-gauge), HO-gauge, N-gauge model layouts on display. All ages welcome. Free.
Silvertones Community Singers, 10:30 a.m., Silverton United Methodist Church, 203 Main St., Silverton. Anyone who loves to sing is welcome. 503-873-2033
Silverton Ukulele Network, 1 - 2:30 p.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Song circle. Free. All welcome. 503-873-3093
Saturday
Silverton Farmers Market, 10 a.m. - noon, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N Church St., Silverton. Local produce, eggs, meats, artisan crafts. Free admission. Outdoor summer market at 203 W Main St., begins mid-May. silvertonfarmersmarket.com
Saturday Serenity Al-Anon Family Group, 10 a.m., Zoom. For families and friends of alcoholics. Zoom link: Janet.h.salem23@gmail.com
Sunshine Fitness, 10 a.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Light exercising with follow-along videos. Signed waiver required. Teens & adults. 971-370-5040
Silverton Country Historical Museum, 1 - 4 p.m., 428 S Water St. Repeats Sunday. Open to public. 503-873-7070.
Friday, May 1
Rummage Sale
9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Marquam United Methodist Church, 36971 S Hwy. 213, Mt. Angel. Free admission. Repeats May 2. 503-829-5061
FFA Plant Sale
10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. Hanging baskets, petunias, osteos, calibrachoa, salvia, veggies and more. Repeats 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. May 2, 1 - 4 p.m. May 8 and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. May 9.
Atlas Bookshop Opening Noon - 8 p.m., Atlas Bookshop, 214 S Water St., Silverton. Opening for Atlas Bookshop, a community bookstore for new books and literary events. Repeats 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. May 2-3. atlasbooksshopsilverton.com
Flywheels First Friday
4 - 8 p.m., downtown Silverton. Hot rods, street rods, trucks and customs welcome. Leave your car parked, have dinner and walk around town. silvertonflywheels@ gmail.com or visit “Silverton Flywheels Car Club” on Facebook.
Family Movie Night
4:15 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Watch Elena of Avalor (PG) with hot popcorn. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Silverton First Friday
5 - 9 p.m., downtown Silverton. Car show, outdoor dining, Night Crafters Market, shopping, vendors, live music. silvertonchamber.org, Facebook.com/ silvertonfirstfriday
Butte Creek Production of Annie
7 p.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. Butte Creek School performance. Free; donations accepted. 503-829-6803
Lunaria May Opening
6 - 8 p.m., Lunaria Gallery, 113 N Water St., Silverton. Meet May artists. Main Floor Gallery: Pacific Northwest Showcase, juried show featuring eight artists from Oregon and Washington. Loft Gallery: Dancing in Watercolor, paintings by Annette Natocho. 503-873-7734, lunariagallery.com
Saturday, May 2
Sidewalk Art Festival
1 - 4 p.m., downtown Mt. Angel. Celebrate May Day, art and community with sidewalk art, May Pole dancing, shopping, free circus camp for kids with a circus parade. Fundraiser for Mt. Angel School District’s resource room. discovermtangel.org
‘Mixed Tape’ Concert
3 p.m., Silverton Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N Church St. Silverton Children’s Choir and Silver Creek Singers present a concert with familiar songs for all ages. Cookie reception follows. Free; donations accepted. silvertonfriendsofmusic.org
Monday, May 4
DAR Chapter Meeting
10 a.m., Stayton United Methodist Church, 1450 SE Fern Ridge Road. Daughters of the American Revolution Abigail Scott Duniway chapter. Open to all. Refreshments served. Jan, 503-931-4112
Mt. Angel City Council
7 p.m., Mount Angel Public Library. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-845-9291
Tuesday, May 5
Cinco de Mayo
Origami Flowers
1 p.m. & 6:15 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Create folded flowers. Material provided. Free. Teens & adults. 971-370-5040
Mt. Angel American Legion
6:30 p.m., Legion Hall, 740 E College St., Mt. Angel. All veterans are welcome. Masks optional. Jim, 503-845-6119
Wednesday, May 6
Storytime in the Garden
10:30 - 11 a.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Come for Boogie Woogie Wednesday and Storytime. Free admission using your CCRLS library card. 503-873-7633, silverfallslibrary.org
Friends of Silver Falls Library
4 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Friends of Silver Falls Board meeting. Open to public. Teen Hangout
4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Learn to make fruit salad while watching Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief. Ages 12-18. Free. 971-370-5040
Silverton City Council
6:30 p.m., Council Chambers. Work session followed by regular meeting. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-873-5321
Scotts Mills City Council
7 p.m., Scotts Mills City Hall, 265 Fourth St. Open to public. 503-873-5435
Thursday, May 7
May Nature Walks
9 a.m., Silverton Reservoir, 4381 NE Silver Falls Dr. Walk to observe nature, wildlife habitat. Newcomers welcome. Meet at 8:45 a.m. at Silverton Arts Association to carpool, or meet at designated location. 5/14: Silverton Falls State Park. Meet at South Falls parking lot near pay station. 5/21: Baskett Slough Nature Reserve. RSVP for Baskett Slough walk to Kelley Morehouse at sustainablesilverton@gmail.com.
Silverton Kiwanis Club
Noon, Main St. Bistro, 201 E Main St., Silverton. New members welcome. Repeats May 21. silvertonkiwanis.org
Silverton Lions Club
7 p.m., Silverton Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303 N Church St. New members welcome. Repeats May 21. 971-720-3811
Friday, May 8
Balance and Fall Protection
10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Learn common risk factors for falls, how to increase activity levels among older adults, tools to create a safer learning environment. Free. 503-873-3093, silvertonseniors.org
Chess Club
3:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Learn to play chess with friends of all ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Arsenic & Old Lace
7 p.m., Chesterton Academy, 900 S Main St., Mt. Angel. A junior class production. $10/adults. $5/children. $35/up to two adults and their children from the same household. Repeats 7 p.m. May 9 and 2 p.m. May 10. chestertonwv.com
Saturday, May 9
Silverton Fun Run
9 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. 5K and 1-mile fun runs, drawings, costumes. $20/1 mile. $35/5K. $20/virtual 5K. Register at silvertonseniors.org/events.
Bouquet Workshop
10 a.m. - noon, Silverton Grange, 201 Division St. Learn to make a bouquet with florist Cindy Gyurgyik. Sliding scale $33-$88. RSVP, payment to newmoonbloomsfarm@ gmail.com, 503-970-8045.
SFSP Birding & Wildflower Festival
10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Silver Falls State Park, 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity. (Birding walk begins 7:30 a.m.) Nature walks, plant sale, presentations. Also May 10. stateparks.oregon.gov
Make Mother’s Day Cards
3 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Little ones create a card with fingerpaints for Mother’s Day. Ages 1-12. Free. 971-370-5040
Sunday, May 10
Mother’s Day
Monday, May 11
Mt. Angel School District
6:30 p.m., St. Mary’s Public School, 590 E College St., Mt. Angel. 503-845-2345
Silver Falls School District
7 p.m., Silverton Hig, 1456 Pine St. Open to public. 503-873-5303
Tuesday, May 12
Ancestry Detectives
10 a.m. - noon, Silver Falls Library. Learn to use Family Search to preserve memories so they don’t get lost. Speaker Joe Price. All welcome. Free. ancestrydetectives.org
Ukulele Play and Sing-Alongs
6 - 7:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. First 30 minutes is beginner’s ukulele lesson followed by play and sing-along time for all skill levels. Music is provided but bring your ukulele. 503-873-8796
Silverton Planning Commission
6:30 p.m., Council Chambers. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-873-5321
Book Talk Book Club
7 p.m., Atlas Bookshop, 214 S Water St., Silverton. The Art Thief by Michael Finkel. Free. Adults only. atlasbookshopsilverton.com
Wednesday, May 13
Virtual Film Discussion
7 p.m. Zoom. Watch Pulp Fiction, available on Kanopy on your own and join moderated discussion. Zoom invite: Ron Drake, 503-873-8796.
Thursday, May 14
Women’s Connection Luncheon
Noon, Silverton Assembly of God Church, 437 N James St. Silverton High FFA presents greenhouse and garden education programs. Speaker Michelle Ping shares her faith, laughs and life lessons. RSVP: Stacey at 503-680-3786.
Mt. Angel Writing Group
6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Stretch your writing wings in supportive environment. 971-370-5040
Silverton Zenith Women’s Club
6:30 p.m., Silver Creek Fellowship. Refreshments and fellowship followed by a meeting at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Becky, 971-600-4713
Trivia Night
7 p.m., Pub 201 East, 210 E Charles St., Mt. Angel. Prizes. 971-370-5040
Friday, May 15
LEGO Star Wars
3 - 4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Build a Star Wars-themed piece to display at the library. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Saturday, May 16
Silverton Pet Parade
10 a.m., Coolidge McClaine Park, 300 Coolidge St., Silverton. Bring your favorite pet to walk downtown. Staging starts at 9:30 a.m. No registration or fees needed. silvertonkiwanis.org
Paws in the Park
11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Coolidge McClaine Park, 300 Coolidge St., Silverton. Entertainment, food, pet-focused businesses. Family and pet friendly. Free. silvertonchamber.org
Sunday, May 17
Music at the Gordon House
5 p.m., 869 W Main St., Silverton. Cello and guitar duo Boyd Meets Girl. Tickets $45 at chatterpdx.org.
Winemaker’s Dinner
5:30 - 8 p.m., The Oregon Garden, 879 W Main St., Silverton. Five-course meal paired with Silverback Estate wines: $89. oregongardenresort.com/events.
Monday, May 18
Vigil for Peace
2:30 - 3:30 p.m., Towne Square Park, Silverton. Silverton People for Peace gather to advocate for peace, social justice. Open to all. 503-873-5307
Tuesday, May 19
Read’n’Chat
6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Discuss narrative voice while reading excerpts from well-known authors. Snacks. Adults. Free. 971-370-5040
Silver Falls Book Club
6:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Discuss North Woods by Daniel Mason. Everyone welcome. Free. 503-873-8796
Wednesday, May 20
Red Cross Blood Drive
8:15 a.m. - 2 p.m., Silverton High, 1456 Pine St. For appt., visit redcrossblood. org or call 800-733-2767.
Master Gardeners Program
6 - 8 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Rose expert shares tips and tricks. Also, the good, the bad and the ugly of garden bugs. Free. All welcome. 503-873-8796
Silverton City Council
6:30 p.m., Council Chambers. Work session then meeting. Open to public.
Thursday, May 21
Clear the Clutter
11 a.m., Silverton 50+ Center. Learn how to declutter, steps to make a move easier. Free. 503-508-7278. Silver Falls Writers Group
Mt. Angel Planning Commission
7 p.m., Mount Angel Public Library. Open to public. Agenda available. 503-845-9291
Friday, May 22
Red Cross Blood Drive
Noon - 5 p.m., Silverton Elks Lodge, 300 High St. For appointments visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
Gaming Club
3:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Design a character, go on a merry adventure with friends. Teens & adults. Free. 971-370-5040
Sunday, May 24
Wine & Wags
11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Silverback Estate Winery, 11374 NE Sunnyview Road, Salem. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., walk and sip with adoptable dogs from Woods Creek Dog Rescue. 1 - 3 p.m., guest dogs welcome. Free admission. silverbackwine.com
Scotts Mills Historical Museum
Noon - 4 p.m., 210 Grandview Ave., Scotts Mills. Open for public browsing. Free. Open by appointment by contacting Joe Plas, 503-871-9803; ksplonski@aol.com
Monday, May 25
Memorial Day
Memorial Day Service
9:30 a.m., Calvary Cemetery, Mount Angel. Patriotic and liturgical music, mass, placement of memorial wreath, reading of names of fallen, honor guard. All welcome. Bring lawn chairs. In case of rain service will take place at St. Mary Church.
Tuesday, May 26
TAB/Book Club
4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Discuss Just Like Click by Sandy Grubb. After, meet for Teen Advisory Board (TAB) meeting. Pizza. Free. Ages 12-18. 971-370-5040 PFLAG Silverton
7 p.m., Oak Street Church, 502 Oak St., Silverton. Everyone welcome. Under 18 must have parent/guardian. Christy, 541-786-1613, silvertonpflag@gmail.com
Friday, May 29
Paint & Steep
1 & 6:15 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Paint along with an instructional video while drinking a selection of teas. Adults & teens. Free. 971-370-5040
LEGO Flowers Challenge
6:30 p.m., Silver Falls Library. Share what you’re working on and listen to what others are writing. Free. Ron, 503-873-8796
Romantics Book Club
7 p.m., Atlas Bookshop, 214 S Water St., Silverton. Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage. Free. Adults. atlasbookshopsilverton. com
3 - 4:30 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. Build a floral-themed piece to display in the library. All ages. Free. 971-370-5040
Saturday, May 30
Community Culture Night
3 - 6 p.m., Mt. Angel Public Library. A celebration of cultures. Singing, dancing, food and merriment on E Charles Street. Liberty Quartet Concert
6 p.m., Silverton First Baptist Church, 229 Westfield St. Free community concert. Love offering will be taken in support of the Quartet’s ministry. 503-873-6181
SILVER FALLS FAMILY YMCA
Y @ Lewis Street 20+ new programs and classes FREE for Silver Falls Y members, plus new perks at Anytime Fitness and at the Oregon Garden included with membership!
Summer day camps
In-town fun for kids 7-14. Each week includes swim time, big park games, Oregon Garden visits, the Lewis Street innovation lab, bouldering wall, games, activities, songs, skits and memories for a lifetime! Limited spots - sign up now!
Silverton FFA Members score seven first place wins
By James Day
Silverton FFA members took home seven first place banners for their showing at the state competition March 19-22 at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond.
Approximately 16,000 state members from 130 chapters participated, according to Silverton FFA adviser Scott Towery. A total of 32 Silverton students were involved.
“We had a great state convention,” Towery told Our Town. “Students represented our school and chapter very well.”
First place finishers included Alonna (Ali) Murphy for beginning public speaking, Elise Gardner for secretary book and Kellen Kuenzi in the Wilco photo contest.
In addition, four teams and individuals in agriscience took first, making them eligible for a possible trip to the FFA National Convention in Indianapolis in October.
Sam Charpilloz was first in division three of food products and processing systems; Peyton Smith and Isabell Gray were first in division six of food products and processing systems, Travis Kuenzi and Emmett Dietrich took first in power, technical and social systems, while Travis Kuenzi also earned first in fruit and nut production.
Other high finishers for Silverton included a second in parliamentary procedure for chair Chase Stoddard and the team of Aubrey Leao, Elise Gardner, Caden Emmert, Aiden Scheacher and Travis Kuenzi.
Levi Schurter finished second in extemporaneous speaking.
Brooke Boatner took home $600 and Joe Steffen $400 in the co-op quiz, Boatner was third in the essay contest, and Leao was awarded the Fairs Foundation and HH Gibson scholarship.
Top left, Peyton Smith and Isabell Gray show off their medals for Agriscience; top right, Brooke Boatner and Joe Steffan placed in the co-op quiz; below from left, Levi Schurter took 2nd for extemporaneous speaking; Alonna Murphy won 1st for beginning public speaking; Chase Stoddard accepts the win for parliamentary procedure on behalf of his team. COURTESY WALES HUNTER
Track & field Silverton high jumpers soaring to record heights
Silverton high jumpers are putting together record-shattering performances this season, and that’s only in April.
Scout Haugen, a freshman for the Foxes, has developed steadily all season, hitting 5-4, 5-5, 5-6 and 5-7 in the early meets. But on April 24, at the Jesuit Twilight Relays in Portland, Haugen cleared the bar at 5-9.25, which is a state girls freshman record. Haugen, who won the Jesuit event by an astonishing 5 inches, is ranked No. 1 in the state regardless of age or class and she is the top ninth-grader in the nation.
Teammate Caden Druliner, meanwhile, has been on a similar streak for the boys. Druliner finished second at the OSAA Class 5A meet a year ago at 6-6.25 and he now has surpassed that three times in 2026. He leapt 6-7.75 at the Oregon Relays on April 4, upped it to 6-8 at the Vic Downs Mac Invite on April 10 and at Jesuit he cleared 6-9. Druliner and Harlan Novy-Knox of Lincoln High of Portland both cleared the height, but Druliner won on a tiebreaker. The two jumpers are tied for the state lead.
For video of Haugen and Druliner at the Jesuit meet go to athletic.net/team/282/ track-and-field-outdoor/2026/.
More track and field: Greyson Glivinski, a University of Oregon freshman from Silverton, threw the javelin 169-0 at a meet at Hayward Field in Eugene. The mark moved Glivinski, who only began competing in track and field during her
Sports
Datebook
Friday, May 1
Baseball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Warrenton
5 p.m. Silverton vs Dallas
Softball
5 p.m. Kennedy vs St. Paul
Monday, May 4
Baseball
5 p.m. Silverton vs South Albany
Tuesday, May 5
Boys Tennis
4 p.m. Silverton vs Woodburn
Girls Tennis
4 p.m. Silverton vs Woodburn
Wednesday, May 6
Baseball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs St. Paul
junior year with the Foxes, to the No. 8 spot all-time on the Ducks’ record list.
Alumni watch, Ethan Kleinschmit: The junior left-hander at Oregon State is 7-2 in 11 starts with a 3.49 earned run average and 73 strikeouts in 56 2/3 innings. Kleinschmit, who played high school ball at Kennedy and his freshman year at Linn-Benton Community College, has helped lead the Beavers to a 33-9 record and the No. 6 ranking by D1Baseball.com
Equestrian: Kennedy turned in a strong district season in Oregon High School Equestrian Teams competition and is getting ready for the May 6-10 state competition at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond.
Topping the list for Kennedy was its Canadian flags team of Sabina Nguyen, Reaghan Williams, Miley Navarette, Sydney Hudson and Bella Rocha. The quintet took second at the final North Valley District meet, took bronze for the season and advanced to state. Nguyen also qualified for state by earning a bronze in driving.
Other top competitors included Williams
All home games. Visit osaa.org for full schedules.
Softball
5 p.m. Silverton vs West Albany
Boys Volleyball
7 p.m. Silverton vs North Salem
Thursday, May 7
Boys Tennis
4 p.m. Silverton vs Cascade
Girls Tennis
4 p.m. Silverton vs Cascade
Friday, May 8
Track & Field
2 p.m. Garden City Invitational, Silverton
4 p.m. Kennedy vs Waldport
Baseball
5 p.m., Silverton vs Woodburn
Softball
5 p.m. Kennedy vs Perrydale
(4th in keyhole and 6th in individual flags); Nguyen (fourth in showmanship); Rocha (4th in saddle seat); Charlotte Hudson, Nguyen, Rocha, Navarette and Sydney Hudson (5th in in-hand obstacle relay); Sydney Hudson (5th in driving); and Charlotte Hudson (6th in in-hand trail).
Those finishing fourth through sixth received alternate spots for state. Jaime Hudson is the head coach of the Trojans. Charlotte Hudson is serving as the team captain.
Gymnastics: Silverton Gymnastics Academy came away from the 2026 Xcel state championships in Salem with the highest number of state champions among the 29 teams competing.
“We were super excited to receive a certificate for having the most state champions out of all the Oregon gyms,” head coach Celia Storey told Our Town. “Our athletes did amazing, and we couldn’t be more proud of their accomplishments this season.”
Team results for Silverton: Xcel bronze: 5th place, Xcel silver: 3rd place, Xcel gold: 5th place, Xcel platinum: 1st place, and Xcel diamond: 3rd place.
The team compiled 21 individual state championships:
State vault champions: Andie Rue, Kaleah Austin and Laurel Miller;
State bar champions: Erin Grosjacques
Monday, May 11
Baseball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Colton
Softball
5 p.m. Silverton vs South Albany
Wednesday, May 13
Track & Field
4 p.m. Silverton vs Corvallis, McKay
Softball
5 p.m. Silverton vs Dallas
5 p.m. Kennedy vs St. Paul
Thursday, May 14
Track & Field
2 p.m. MWC JV Championship, Silverton Baseball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Colto
and Sadie Brown-Maxwell;
State beam champions: Laurel Miller, Isis Baluch, Charlie Stearns and London Bielemeier;
State floor champions: Ella Pauls, Naomi Madlem, Elly Hess, Mia Guel, Cora White, Lila Hughey, Adaleah Lemus, Olivia Bowman, Ellie Wurdinger and Charlotte Davis;
State all-around champions: Reagan Ort and Erin Grosjacques
Regional competition took place by scoring only for teams in Oregon, Washington, Montana, Idaho and Hawaii. Grosjacques took regional bar and all-around championships in Xcel platinum and Kristina Chuprov won on floor in Xcel gold.
Chess: The Silverton Chess Club sent 10 players to the Chess For Success state championships in Hillsboro. Nearly 375 players overall participated.
“Everyone had fun at the state chess tournament. It was good competition,” said Silverton coach Mike McQueen. The middle school team took 12th out of 23 teams and elementary players were 11th out of 50 teams. In individual play the top local finishers were John Paul Dill (30th out of 183 for elementary) and Grayson Huebsch who (39th out of 84 for middle school).
Friday, May 15
Softball
3 p.m. Kennedy vs Western Christian.
Double-header
Baseball
5 p.m. Silverton vs Lebanon
Monday, May 18
Baseball
3 p.m. Kennedy vs Union/Cove
Tuesday, May 19
Softball
4:30 p.m. Kennedy vs Clatskanie
Wednesday, May 20
Baseball
5 p.m. Silverton vs West Albany
Thursday, May 21
Baseball
4 p.m. Kennedy vs Taft
Georg Johannes Kretzschmar
Aug. 18, 1936 – April 1, 2026
Georg Johannes Kretzschmar passed away peacefully at the Mount Angel Towers on April 1 at the age of 89.
Georg was born on Aug. 18, 1936, in the small German village of Beilrode. He was the only child born to Arno and Ida Kretzschmar who ran the village gasthaus. Georg’s job as a young boy in the gasthaus was to pour the vodka left in the glasses of the Russian soldiers back into the bottles to be sold again the next night. As a child he watched the bright skies of Dresden burning, had an unexploded bomb land inside his home, and played war with neighborhood children on a damaged Russian tank in their back yard.
At 15 years old he left Communist East Germany and entered a refugee camp where he began his journey to the United States. During this journey he briefly worked in a coal mine, apprenticed as a waiter, and worked as a merchant marine. He crossed the ocean to Quebec, Canada, where he worked in room service at the Ritz Carlton where he learned that ‘French toast’ was not toasted French bread!
In the late 1950s, Georg came to the United States and joined the army where he learned his trade as an optician. He became a United States citizen and after the army, he moved to Salem, Oregon, where he started his lifelong career as an optician. He had a love for nature and joined the Chemeketans hiking group where he met his future wife, Joyce Gould. They spent many years exploring the outdoors together, which included climbing several mountains. Georg and Joyce settled outside of Silverton, Oregon. They had a son, Johann, and daughters, Heidi and Monika. They shared their love of the outdoors with their children and grandchildren by camping, hiking, fishing, and sightseeing. When they retired, they traveled in an RV throughout the United States and Canada. Their favorite destination was the long drive through Canada to Alaska. When they were not in their RV, they were taking cruises around the world and saw sights such as the pyramids of Egypt and the canals of Venice.
After the death of Joyce in 2018, Georg moved to the Mount Angel Towers retirement community. He enjoyed making new friends and learning their life stories. “So many amazing and interesting people here.” He became part of this community and thrived. His children remember him being reserved and quiet, but the Towers brought out a side of Georg they didn’t see. He truly loved it there.
Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Kretzschmar (Gould), in 2018, he is survived by his son Johann; daughters Heidi and Monika; and his grandchildren Madeline, Masa, Mika, Page, and Cameron.
A Celebration of Life will be Saturday, May 2, at 2 p.m. at Mount Angel Towers. He is loved and will be greatly missed. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Passages
Barbara Rivoli
Barbara Rivoli, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, at the age of 60, surrounded by her family in her home in Silverton, Oregon.
Nov. 21, 1965 – March 20, 2026
Barbara was born on Nov. 21, 1965, in Norristown, Pennsylvania. Later in life, she made her home in Oregon, where she built a life filled with love, connection, and community. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jon Rivoli, and her two children, Katie and Jon, who were the center of her world.
Barbara was recently blessed with becoming a grandmother to her cherished granddaughter, Maisie Grace. Spending time with Maisie was one of the greatest joys of her life, and she treasured every moment they shared together.
Barbara had a deep love for gardening and found great fulfillment working at Bauman Farms, where she nurtured both plants and friendships. She adored her coworkers, who became like family to her, and she brought warmth and kindness
Jon Paul Graham
into every space she entered.
Barbara lived her life with a simple but profound mission: to make every person she met feel loved. She was quick to forgive, generous in spirit, and believed deeply in the power of love and grace. Motherhood was her greatest calling, and she embraced it with devotion, joy, and a playful heart. She had a special love for children and a natural gift for bringing happiness to those around her.
Active in her community and involved in various groups and interests, Barbara touched the lives of many. Her kindness, compassion, and radiant spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A funeral service was held on March 31 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Angel, Oregon.
Barbara’s legacy of love will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
April 27, 1953 –Dec. 24, 2025
Jon Paul Graham, 72, of Silverton, Oregon, died quietly at home in his wife’s arms on Christmas Eve 2025. Jon was born in Cherryville, Oregon, to Paul and Lorraine (Peterson) Graham. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Jolynne Graham.
Jon graduated from Woodburn High School in 1971 and followed with a fouryear stint in the Marine Corps during Vietnam. He attended numerous colleges and had many occupations during his lifetime including air traffic control, machinist, tool and die, metallurgist, engineer and supervisory positions.
His love for animals was all inclusive, believing that the lion should lay with the lamb and it knew no bounds – an alligator named Fluffy, a skunk named Smelly Cat, a ferret named Roger as well as the traditional dogs, cats, rabbits and goats.
He was an ardent antique collector with a special focus on phonographs that he restored and repaired as well as any tooling that he did not know the purpose of.
Jon’s personality was filled with curiosity and inquisitiveness. His intelligent, quick witted and playful humor always kept you on your toes. His kind heart often went unnoticed.
He loved nothing more than being “Graham-pa” to his eight grandchildren: Marvin, Vivienne, Harrison, Adelyn, Gaven, Natalie, Vincent and Charlotte (Charlie).
He is survived by his wife Cindy (Waseen) of 47 years; their sons Joseph (Kate) of Molalla, Jonathan “Pete” (Maria), and Thomas (Ruth) both of Silverton; a brother Jay Graham of Hillsboro; and foster sister Alice Cardenas Dalton of Herndon, Virginia, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law.
A celebration of life will follow in the summer sunshine that he loved so well and will be posted on Facebook.
His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and all who loved him.
Linda Mary Berhorst July 29, 1947 – March 26, 2026
Linda Mary Berhorst, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, at the age of 78.
Linda was born on July 29, 1947 in Grant Pass, Oregon. She graduated from Grants Pass High School in 1965 and went on to Southern Oregon College where she met Raymond Berhorst.
They were married June 15, 1968 in Ashland, Oregon. She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Education from Oregon State University in 1972 and taught business skills classes at Silverton High School and Chemeketa Community College.
In 1971 Linda and Ray built a new farm home in the Silverton hills. In a life rooted in faith, love, and devotion to family they adopted three children from South Korea. Kim in 1975 (at five months) then Joe and Steve in 1978 (at five years). She raised them with deep love, strength and unwavering commitment as a devoted mother, and was a constant source of encouragement and care, guiding them through every stage of life. While raising her family, and teaching night classes, she was an avid gardener, oil painter and active farm hand.
Linda served for many years as an executive member of the Silverton-Mt. Angel Christian Women’s Club. She dedicated her time and heart volunteering and serving others. She was a faithful member of the Prince of Peace Episcopal Church in Salem, Oregon, for 20 years.
She deeply loved the outdoors and found joy in hiking. Linda especially enjoyed participating in Volkswalks across the U.S., embracing adventure and the beauty of nature. In retirement this led to many travel adventures for hiking, camping and bird watching.
She is survived by her husband, Raymond Berhorst; her children, Joe, Steve, and Kim Berhorst; and her grandchildren Jenell, Tate, Jaden, Jack and Ava. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister. Linda will be remembered as a wonderful mother, grandmother, teacher, friend, and wife. Her legacy is one of compassion, faith, strength, and love for family.
Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure.
Memorial services will be held May 9 at 1:30 pm in the Chapel of the Good Shepard, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Salem.
Lorrie Buhr July 15, 1951 – April 10, 2026
Lorrie Buhr lived in the Mount Angel - Silverton area her entire life. She passed away on April 10, 2026, at home surrounded by her family. She was 74.
Lorrie was a loving mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother. She was loved by many and known for her kind heart and devotion to her family.
She is survived by her children Amy (Jim)
Terhaar of Scotts Mills, Bill (Kathy) Buhr of Mount Angel, Linda (Richard) Terhaar of Scotts Mills, and Alice (Ervin) Stadeli of Silverton; 20 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Rosary was held April 24 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mount Angel, followed by a Mass and luncheon. Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel.
Submissions welcomed: If there is a birth, engagement, wedding, anniversary, college graduation or obituary of a local resident you’d like to share, please send it to ourtown.life@mtangelpub.com or mail it to Editor, Our Town, P.O. Box 927, Mount Angel, OR 97362, or drop it by our office at 401 Oak St., Silverton any weekday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Gerald E. Roberts
On Jan. 31, 2026, we said goodbye to our father, Gerald Eugene Roberts.
He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, on March 7, 1934, to John Henry and Ava Roberts. Jerry served in the United States Air Force for four years, worked at Perdue and Lockheed Martin before opening his famous fruit stand in Sunol, California, where he sold fresh fruit and flowers, advertising with handmade, old-school signs.
He and his wife of 47 years, Kathie, moved to Silverton in 1988, opening the Package Depot and Data Merchant on Oak Street. He embraced small town living in Silverton. He worked as a printer at the Silverton Appeal Tribune, enjoyed Homer Davenport Days, volunteering with the Lions Club and going to Coolidge McClaine Park for strawberry shortcake. Jerry was also one of the co-founders of Our Town and Mt. Angel Publishing, Inc.
He also enjoyed watching Kathie work in her garden and spending time with his many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Jerry passed away peacefully at his home just 54 days after his beloved wife passed.
He is survived by his daughter, Leanna Vasquez of Nevada, son-in-law Arnold Vasquez, granddaughter Savannah Long, and grandsons Jacoby and Nico Vasquez, as well as his daughter Deborah Ferris, his sons John Elliott and Michael Elliott.
He was preceded in death by his wife Kathie and his son Jimmie Elliott. He will be missed by his family but will rejoice in heaven with his wife and favorite dogs Zoey and Bailey.
In Memory Of
Kevin J. Donohue May 4, 1946 - March 4, 2026
Jeffrey Paul Birch Oct. 29, 1957 - April 9, 2026
Lorrie Ann Buhr July 15, 1951 - April 10, 2026
Marilyn Ann Terhaar May 9, 1947 - April 13, 2026
Always honoring your request for traditional, eco-friendly or aqua cremation, celebration of life, and services involving earth burial. We also offer pre-planning alternatives to control costs.
local funeral chapels serving Mt. Angel since 1919 & Silverton since 1924.
Bots replacing humans?
It’s springtime, and graduation season is fast approaching. Flocks of newly minted members of the Class of 2026 will take flight, many of them with their eyes on a horizon that offers unlimited opportunities, challenges and tests. I am inspired by every one of these graduates. They will plunge forward with enthusiasm, diving into a new career, college, the military or something else that will take them places they have never even dreamed.
A whole lot of hand-wringing has been devoted lately to predicting the fall of civilization because of artificial intelligence, quantum computers or even social media. Such predictions are overwrought and under thought. They factor in a best case scenario for technology and a worst case scenario for humans.
What folks need to keep in mind is that computers are dumb. As a rock. They are used solely to perform tasks that people don’t want to do.
For example, I am writing this column using a computer, not because I want to but because it’s easier to let the computer highlight the misspelled words when I screw up. Even using the most advanced AI, no computer will ever replace yours truly. It’s just not possible. Nor is it possible to replace the work of any good writer.
For example, Williams Shakespeare was around in the last part of 16th century and early 17th century. He wrote 39 plays and 154 sonnets.
Since he died at age 52 in 1616, no person, or computer, has equaled the quality of his writing. Here’s what he wrote about love, something about which computers know nothing. “My bounty is
as boundless as the sea, My love as deep; the more I give to thee, The more I have, for both are infinite.”
Top that, Chatbot.
To paraphrase an old saying, if you had an infinite number of computer engineers coding for an infinite number of years they would write all of Shakespeare’s work.
Simply put, it’s not going to happen.
Why? Because a computer has no soul. Nor does it have the ability to use life experience to learn about itself and others and express itself in a way that impacts the human heart.
Sorry, Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and their fellow travelers along the electronic highway. You guys do what you do well, and in return you have made a zillion dollars. Good for you.
So as the Class of 2026 – the Stayton Eagles, Regis Rams, Cascade Cougars, Santiam Wolverines, John F. Kennedy High School Trojans and Silverton Foxes – finish their high school careers and pick up the mantle of building a better world, country and community, we’re hoping for only their best efforts.
Of this we can be certain: Those very human efforts, and the inspiration that drives them, will carry the day.
Carl Sampson is a freelance writer and editor. He lives in Stayton.
But ask anyone anywhere how Microsoft, Tesla or Amazon has touched humans in the way that made their lives more full and you would be hard-pressed to come up with a single example. Computers are great at doing dumb, repetitive or time-consuming stuff. Let them. The work that will solve the mysteries of the universe and help us understand the nature of humankind will not be delegated to boxes of silicon wafers populated by millions of transistors. That work is too important and complicated for electronic gadgets.
GENERAL
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SILVERTON ELKS FLEA
MARKET May 9th 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, 300 High Street, Silverton, OR. Call: 503-931-4517 for more information.
MT. ANGEL SENIOR CENTER
is a non-profit consignment store for artisans over 50, a community center, home to Meals on Wheels, and serves as a food bank. Volunteers welcome! 195 E Charles St. 503-845-6998 or mtangelcommunity@gmail.com
SERVICES
SOUNDS GOOD STUDIO
BANDS Artists, Personal Karaoke CDs, Books, Restoring Picture Slides & VHS video to DVD. Old Cassettes, Records, Reel to Reel & 8 Track Cassettes restored to CD. Call Harold 503-391-7406. A Magic Carpet Cleaning & More Service
MAGIC CARPET CLEANING & MORE Since 1992. Carpet & upholstery cleaning at its best. Free estimates. Residential & commercial. Located in Silverton. Call Harold at 503-391-7406
GOT STUFF YOU WANT GONE?
From yard debris to scrap metal, garage sale leftovers to rental clear outs. We repurpose, recycle, reuse, or donate what we can. Call to find out what we can do for you. $20 min. Call Keith 503-502-3462
YOUR RIGHT TO SELF DEFENSE
Saturdays Age 10-12 at 5:00, ages 13 and up. 6:15, Security and Correctional Officers. 7:30, private lessons available. International Certification Curriculum available upon request. Call Harold 503-391-7406
HANDYMAN & HOME REPAIR
SERVICE Installation and repair of fencing, decks, doors, gutter cleaning, moss removal, power washing, yard debris removal. CCB# 206637 Call Ryan 503-881-3802
RENTALS
RENT EVENT SPACE AT THE SILVERTON GRANGE HALL 291 Division St, Silverton. Affordable hourly, half day, full day rates. Family gatherings, classes, yoga, dances, meetings, baptisms, weddings and more! Fully equipped kitchen, plenty of parking. Hall seats up to 70. Call Silverton Grange, 503-516-5722
Public Notices
NOTICE OF BUDGET HEARING
A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the Mt. Angel Fire District, Marion, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, will be held at Mt. Angel Fire District, 300 Monroe St, Mt. Angel, OR 97362. The meeting will take place on May 14, 2026, at 7:30 pm. The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message and to receive comments from the public on the budget.
This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place. Any per-
Place your ad in Marketplace 503-845-9499
ROOM FOR RENT: $650/Month in Lyons. Lawn mowing needed. Please call 503-383-4398
HELP WANTED
SILVERTON ELKS LODGE is looking for a Lodge Office Assistant. The position requires a working knowledge of accounting principles and practices and bookkeeping experience. Good understanding of QuickBooks and the Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Access, etc.) important. The position is 20-24 hours/week, Wednesday thru Friday, working under the direction of the Lodge Secretary. Hourly wage will be based on education and work experience. A detailed job description will be provided upon receipt of resume. Resumes will be accepted thru May 8, 2026. Submit to: Silverton Elks Lodge #2210, 300 High St., Silverton, OR 97381or email (PDF format) to silvertonlodge2210@gmail.com subject line “Office Assistant”
To advertise your business, event, or job listing call 503-845-9499
son may appear at the meeting and discuss the proposed programs with the Budget Committee.
A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after May 1, 2026, at 300 Monroe St, Mt. Angel, OR 97362, between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.
Budget Committee meeting information will be posted on the Mt. Angel Fire District website: www.mtangelfire.org.
Published: 4/10/26 & 5/1/26 The Canyon Weekly 5/1/26 Our Town
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We are accepting Advertising Account Executive applications now. We’ll keep looking until we find the right person. This is a full-time (32 hours a week) position. Compensation is a base-plus-commission structure. Historically, annual compensation ranges from $50K - $75K. We offer family-friendly flexibility and paid time off. We also serve a great community and have a cordial crew of co-workers.
Check out our publications at mtangelpub.com. Interested? Send cover letter and resume or questions to: paula.m@mtangelpub.com, subject line: Account Executive.
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with our business community. That leaves Our Town and Mt. Angel Publishing, Inc. with some big shoes to fill.
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SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES
BARELAND/LOTS
Flower Power!
PRO TIPS FOR GROWING AND ARRANGING FLOWERS
By Melissa Wagoner
Since opening their floral business, J&J Flower Co. in 2017, identical twin sisters, Jackie and Jodie Dettwyler, have gained a lot of knowledge about what it takes to grow and create a beautiful flower arrangement.
“We grew up on a farm, and our parents had a large garden. So, growing and caring for plants was not something new to us,” Jackie said. “But we still had much to learn about flowers specifically… We have learned a lot by trial and error… each flower variety has its own growing requirements and there was a lot to learn and still is!”
Farming the same property where their grandparents once lived, the sisters get started in early spring each year by planting a variety of flowers (mostly annuals) from seeds and plug starts that will grow and bloom at varying times, providing them with the necessary
ingredients for arrangements throughout the year.
“Our favorites to design with are ranunculus, lisianthus, dahlias, zinnias, tulips, sweet pea, foxglove, snapdragon, phlox…”
Jodie listed. “We love a lush, gardenstyle look. We are very inspired by the seasons and the colors the season brings. One of our favorite things about arranging is putting together different color combinations. It’s important to us that the colors are cohesive and complement each other…”
monthly bouquet subscriptions, weddings and a handful of businesses – including Willamette Valley Pie, EZ Orchards and Merry Mint – keeps the sisters busy, not just in spring, but year round.
which is very nice… It’s the time when we reflect on how the previous season went, and start planning and prepping for the upcoming year…”
Growing for special orders, weekly and
“Summer is our busiest season on the farm,” Jackie said. “This is the time when all of our planning comes to fruition. We are busy harvesting, designing, weeding and keeping up with all of the blooms. Fall is spent clearing the beds, putting the garden to rest and dividing dahlia tubers. We also dry flowers and create gorgeous, dried flower wreaths to sell in October. Winter slows down a bit,
It’s a growing cycle that, in Jodie’s opinion, isn’t vastly different from the experience of other farmers, or even home gardeners.
“[G]rowing is growing,” she pointed out. “You just need to find out what the specific plant you are wanting to grow requires. Some flowers require a cool start and should be planted in early spring, while others don’t want to be planted out until there is no threat of frost. We are fortunate to be growing in the Willamette Valley where we have very fertile soil, but we still amend with organic compost to help give the flowers a growing boost.”
The real difference, both sisters agree, lies in the harvest and what comes after.
“The best way to keep your flowers
Jackie Dettwyler, co-owner of J&J Flower Co.. COURTESY J&J FLOWER CO.
Flower Power
continued from page 1
lasting the longest is to use very clean snips when harvesting and a clean vessel/vase,” Jackie said. “Keep the water fresh.” When it comes to arranging the blooms, though the sisters say, “No matter how you arrange them, flowers will always be beautiful,” there is a method they recommend.
“We start making the arrangement with the foliage, as it gives structure, texture and depth to the bouquet
and do so using a triangle shape with stems at varying heights,” Jodie said, suggesting all leaves and branches below the water line be removed. “This will be the foundation of the arrangement. Add smaller textural ingredients next such as zinnias, snapdragon, sweet pea, etc., following the triangle shape. Add in your focal flowers at this time in the shape of your structure. Focal flowers we love are dahlias, garden roses, or any larger bloom. Create a balance to your bouquet using the same ingredient three times in different areas of the arrangement. Staggering or clumping…Tuck in airy bits to fill any holes and add some sparkle.”
Your May Garden Chores
PLAN & PREPARE
Prepare and prime irrigation system for summer.
Place pheromone traps in apple trees to detect presence of codling moth. Plan a control program of sprays, baits, or predators if found.
If needed, fertilize rhododendrons and azaleas with acid-type fertilizer. If established and healthy, their nutrient needs should be minimal. Remove spent blossoms.
PLANT
Plant dahlias, gladioli, and tuberous begonias in mid-May.
Plant chrysanthemums for fall color. When selecting new roses, choose plants labeled for resistance to diseases. Fertilize roses and control rose diseases such as mildew with a registered fungicide.
solution for insect control in gardens.
Spittlebugs may appear on ornamental plants as foam on stems. In most cases, they don’t require management. If desired, wash off with water or use insecticidal soap as a contact spray. Read and follow label directions.
Control cabbageworms in cabbage and cauliflower, 12-spotted cucumber beetle in beans and lettuce, maggot in radishes. Control can involve hand removal, placing barrier screen over newly planted rows, or spraying or dusting with registered pesticides, labeled for use on the problem plant. Read and follow label directions when using insecticides.
Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. Treat with Neem, Bt-s, or use nematodes for larvae. Read and follow label directions when using insecticides.
It’s a process both sisters enjoy just as much as the time they spend outdoors with their hands in the soil. But what they have come to love most about their business isn’t either of these things, it’s “seeing the way people’s eyes light up when given a bouquet of flowers,” Jackie said. “It’s priceless. Flowers have a way of blessing any occasion and we are grateful to have the opportunity to share them with others.”
For more information visit jandjflowerco.com or follow them on social media.
Plant most vegetables now; check with local gardeners. Use a soil thermometer to help you know when to plant vegetables. Wait until the soil is consistently above 70 degrees F to plant tomatoes, squash, melons, peppers and eggplant. Prevent root maggots when planting cole crops (cabbage, broccoli, collards and kale), by covering with row covers or screens, or by applying appropriate insecticides.
PUT PESTS OUT
Manage weeds while small and actively growing with light cultivation or herbicides.
Once the weed has gone to bud, herbicides are less effective.
Trap moles and gophers as new mounds appear.
Leaf-rolling worms may affect apples and blueberries. Prune off and destroy affected leaves.
Monitor aphids on strawberries and ornamentals. If present, control options include washing off with water, hand removal, or using registered insecticides labeled for the problem plant. Follow all label directions. Promoting natural enemies (predators and parasitoids that eat or kill insects) is a longer-term
Monitor rhododendrons, azaleas, primroses and other broadleaf ornamentals for adult root weevils. Look for fresh evidence of feeding (notching at leaf edges). Try sticky trap products on plant trunks to trap adult weevils. Protect against damaging the bark by applying the sticky material on a 4-inch wide band of poly sheeting or burlap wrapped around the trunk. Mark plants now and supply beneficial nematodes when soil temps are above 55 degrees F. If root weevils are a consistent problem, consider removing plants and choosing weevil-resistant varieties.
Control slugs with bait or traps and by removing or mowing vegetation near garden plots.
Oregon State University Extension Service encourages sustainable gardening practices. Always identify and monitor problems before acting. First, consider cultural controls; then physical, biological and chemical controls (which include insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, botanical insecticides, organic and synthetic pesticides). Always consider the least-toxic approach first.
Recommendations in this calendar are applicable to Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
Jackie Dettwyler holding finished arrangement. COURTESY J&J FLOWER CO.
Jodie and Jackie Dettwyler in the field.
COURTESY J&J FLOWER CO.
Planting for bee health
By Melissa Wagoner
Planting a garden that both attracts bees and keeps them healthy is a little more complicated than simply choosing flowering plants – but that is a good place to start.
“It’s so easy to help,” Leo Rumely, a “honeybee rancher” and owner of Pacific Honeybee for the past 11 years, confirmed. “As you’re designing your yard think… what blooms now and what blooms later?”
That’s important because, according to Rumely, “Here in the valley in July it’s a desert. All the flowers are done.” And for the bees, that lack of nutrients can be a death sentence.
“Pollen is the only source of protein for bees…” Dr. Ramesh Sigili – professor of apiculture in the Honey Bee Lab at Oregon State University – said. “And bees need something called 24-Methylene-cholesterol, only available from pollen.”
It’s a necessary mixture that is only produced in abundance by certain plants. The question is, which ones?
“That’s our goal in the next year or so,” Dr. Sigili said, describing the studies his lab is engaging in, which they hope will enable backyard gardeners, beekeepers and anyone else concerned about the wellbeing of bees, to plant vegetation directly targeting bee nutrition.
gardeners interested in planting for bee nutrition keep four things in mind: pollen production, diversity, clumping and bloom staggering.
“You should do homework to see which will produce nectar and pollen,” Dr. Sigili said. For example, “Lavender is a good nectar source but it won’t provide much pollen.”
So, if your garden already contains a lavender bush, diversifying the plants around it is a good idea.
“Diversity is important,” Dr. Sigili said. “Studies have shown diverse pollen is good because if you are missing something in this pollen you might have it in this one.”
But because honeybees like to maximize their energy by sticking to one species at a time before heading back to the hive, whatever mixture of flowering plants you choose should be planted in clumps.
“The gap we have in [current] knowledge is suggesting people plant based on attractiveness,” Dr. Sigili said.” But wouldn’t it be great if I gave you a chart where we have [plants we’ve identified that produce] this much protein, this much omega, this much fatty acids… We’ll have our list maybe in a year.”
In the meantime, both Rumely and Dr. Sigili recommend
“If you track a honeybee, it will just stick to that one species at a time…” Dr. Sigili validated. “So, if you have a cluster in an area, of maybe 100 plants, the bee will be there collecting efficiently.”
But bees can’t collect what isn’t there, so that also means considering the blooming seasons of the vegetation you plant.
“It’s not a big, complicated thing to do,” Rumely pointed out. “We do a strip of sunflowers every year. Everybody loves it and sunflowers [bloom] later.”
For ease, Rumely also recommends planting a wildflower mix. He and his wife, Jennifer, sell one at their store, the Honey Haus – located across the street from The Glockenspiel in Mount Angel.
“If you can grow grass, you can grow a wildflower mix,” Rumely said.
And he should know. A beekeeper with nearly 1,000
colonies, he spends a lot of time planting flowers.
“I have so many bees I have to move them,” he said. “So, people let me use unused portions of land… We come in and mow it and plant flowers.”
But even Rumely’s efforts are not always enough to properly feed the insects in his care. In July that means heading for the mountains, where fireweed and dandelions bloom, and in the late winter or early spring that means trucking his hives all the way to California to pollinate almonds.
“I like that we’re having a positive impact,” he said of the effort it takes to both keep his bees healthy and provide pollination for the crops grown in the Pacific Northwest. “Even our little operation [aids in the production] of tons of food and seeds and honey.”
Because, of course, honey is Rumely’s final reward. And that honey, according to Rumely, is some of the best around.
“They say local honey is better for you,” Rumely said. “Plus, if it’s local it hasn’t been trucked, so it has less economic impact. And we keep everything raw. Our most popular is fireweed… the champagne of honey… second is meadowfoam.”
Both are the products of happy, healthy bees.
For more information about planting for bees – including articles listing the best winter-blooming plants and how to plant a pollinator-friendly lawn – visit honeybeelab.oregonstate.edu or xerces.org/pollinatorconservation/pollinator-friendly-plant-lists/.
By Melissa Wagoner
Reap the rewards!
Planting in spring isn’t easy but
spear emergence. In a mature planting, we cut every spear, even the tiny ones.”
When it comes to growing early spring vegetables, most of the work happens months in advance.
“[I]t depends on careful fall planning and continual winter care,” Conner Voss – co-owner of Diggin’ Roots Farm in Molalla, explained. “The three-month period of Feb to April is sometimes called the ‘hunger-gap’ in this growing region. Fresh produce harvested during this time typically comes from plants seeded in the fall that survived harsh winter conditions.”
But it’s that struggle, and the resulting concentrated sugars and amino acids, that make over-wintered greens both flavorful and nutritious.
“Our early spring leafy lineup often includes spinach, chard, kale, as well as carefully cultivated lettuce mix, parsley and mustard greens…” Voss said. “Other overwintered items include root vegetables such as beets, turnips, and celeriac. And of course, garlic, which we’ll begin harvesting as ‘green garlic’ in April when it can be used much like a scallion.”
But eventually both the plant and the farmer need a break. And so, when the temperature soars and the rains subside, harvesting ends, allowing “the spears to go and the fronds to fly” with mature stalks, covered in lacy fern-like foliage and tiny bell-shaped flowers, reaching up to seven feet tall.
“Those big messy beautiful asparagus plants feed the large crowns and fleshy rhizomes below ground,” Voss explained. “That is where the energy for next year’s harvest is stored, which is why we must dedicate time to summer and fall tending.”
But it is the farm’s “braising mix” (or rapini) – a combination of young flower shoots from overwintered cabbage, broccoli and kale – that Voss thinks steals the over-wintered vegetable show.
“These biennial plants are predisposed to flower in the spring, after over-wintering,” Voss explained. “Even though we cut the cabbage and broccoli heads in the fall… the lengthening spring days generate amazing rapini harvests from those big stems, crowns, and deep roots, full of stored energy and potential.”
Then there are the asparagus plants – Voss’s “favorite of all” the spring vegetation. A perennial flowering plant related to lilies and garlic, the budded spears begin emerging from rhizomatous crowns as early as late March.
“With considerable time and effort, an asparagus patch is an investment in the future, and, like a fruit tree, the dividends are exponential,” Voss said, describing the process of digging rows of four to six foot trenches, gradually burying rhizomes over an entire month, watering, mulching, weeding, then waiting three years to cut the first spear.
“Temperance in the first three seasons is very important and ensures better long-term productivity,” Voss said, explaining that a well-cared for asparagus patch is well worth the wait as it can produce a three-month long, every other day harvest for up to 30 years.
“We harvest spears when they are10 to 12 inches tall, cutting them at soil level with a knife…” Voss said of the process. “Frequent harvests yield a higher percentage of edible crop, keep the patch cleaner, and stimulate continued
But none of that can happen without a lot of early spring planning and planting, both of asparagus beds and other late spring producers – lettuce, spinach, peas, green onions, arugula and radishes – as well. These are quickgrowing, delicate plants that can be harvested in a matter of weeks, but they need a bit more care when it comes to picking and storing, making them an ideal choice for backyard gardeners.
“Backyard gardens are great, as the harvest can often go straight into a meal without worrying about storage,” Adam McKinley – owner of Olde Moon Farm in Silverton – confirmed, urging anyone interested in growing their own spring vegetables, to give it a try.
“[It’s] not too late!” McKinley assured. “If the soil is dry enough to work, this is a great time to transplant kale, lettuce, spinach, peas, and green onions. It’s also not too late to sow arugula, radish, leaf lettuce, or even peas directly into the garden, as well as fair game to sow beets and carrots.”
Or, if backyard gardening isn’t for you, to find those same vegetables at your local farmers’ market or by signing up for a community supported agriculture (CSA) partnership, where members receive regular deliveries of vegetables (and sometimes even fruit, meat, flowers and eggs) throughout the year.
“Our CSA members are integral to our early spring production because, at this time of year, labor and material costs (seeds, fertilizer, maintenance, utilities, potting mix, tools) far outstrip income,” Voss explained. “The CSA
model establishes a reciprocal relationship: members invest up-front in food production they trust, supporting a vibrant, human-scale, ecological local food system, and the farmers benefit from capital to kick-start production during the leanest months… We hope you’ll join us.”
For more information about the farms mentioned in this article or to enroll in a CSA visit oldemoonfarm.com or digginrootsfarm.com.
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& DIY Plantings
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Even kids love the spring greens at Diggin’ Roots Farm! COURTESY CONNER VOSS
A spring display at the Diggin’ Roots Farm stand at the Silverton Farmers Market. COURTESY CONNER VOSS